Speaking at his campaign office, Hynes said Quinn needs "to end the apparent coverup with his Dept of Corrections" and said he wanted to extend whistleblower protection to those who speak to the press.

The call comes a week after Department of Corrections chief Michael Randle sent a memo to all of his employees reminding them they could be fired if they talk to the media.

"There are times when the only appropriate remedy is to speak to the press, said Hynes. "This is important in terms of transparency."

Hynes' attacks come as Quinn continues to struggle in the polls, with a recent poll sponsored by the Giannoulias campaign showing Quinn's support among likely voters at less than 50 percent.

Gubernatoriol candidate Bill Brady also went on the offensive today, asking Quinn to release the entire memo written by Randle.

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"How own ads contradict his positions," says Brady. "I'm calling on gov. Quinn to life the gag and come clean on his prison release program."